Wedding Planner Permit Requirements in Columbia, SC

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees, operate as an LLC/corporation, or file certain business tax returns. Free from the IRS. Sole proprietors with no employees may use their SSN instead.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online)

   Free

   Immediate (online)

1. South Carolina Retail License

   Required for businesses selling tangible personal property or certain services in South Carolina. Obtain from the SC Department of Revenue.

   Official government source

   $50·1–2 weeks

   $50

   1–2 weeks

2. General Liability Insurance (Recommended)

   Wedding planners in South Carolina are not legally required to carry liability insurance, but most venues require proof of $1M–$2M general liability coverage before allowing a planner to work on-site. Many clients also require it in your contract.

   $400–$1,200/year·Same day (online quotes)

   $400–$1,200/year

   Same day (online quotes)

1. Columbia Business License

   All businesses operating in Columbia must obtain a general Business License from the Columbia City Clerk's Office. Wedding planners operating as sole proprietors, LLCs, or corporations need this license to legally conduct business. Renewal is required annually.

   Official government source

   $25–$100/year·1–3 weeks

   $25–$100/year

   1–3 weeks

2. DBA (Doing Business As) Registration

   If operating under a trade name (e.g., "Perfect Day Events" rather than your legal name), you must file a Fictitious Business Name (DBA) with Richland County. This is required before accepting payments under a business name.

   $15–$50·1–2 weeks

   $15–$50

   1–2 weeks

Official Sources

• City of Columbia — Business Licensing
• South Carolina Secretary of State
• IRS — Apply for EIN

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